A Manchester United player who was once deemed ‘untouchable’ could be used as a potential ‘make weight’ in United’s pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Despite United’s interest in him throughout the summer transfer window, the 21-year-old Baleba is still a Brighton player as of the September 1 deadline.
No official proposal was made for the 21-year-old midfielder, despite United’s interest in him. Earlier this month, there were even rumors that the Red Devils had abandoned their pursuit of Baleba.
Ruben Amorim has utilized Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in the engine room throughout his team’s Premier League games against Arsenal and Fulham thus far this season, but central midfield is still a trouble area.
Notably, Kobbie Mainoo has been linked to a possible move away from United despite not being utilized as a substitute in either game.
The Mail stated on Tuesday, August 26, that at least ten clubs have contacted them about a possible transfer for the 20-year-old, and that a decision regarding his future is anticipated to be made before the deadline on Monday of next week.
The England midfielder is reportedly considering both a loan and a permanent move.
Who are the front-runners to sign him, then?
The leading teams to recruit Mainoo are Real Madrid and Atletico, with Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Brighton also in the running, according to Sky Bet.
Additionally, some supporters have implied that Mainoo would be included in a possible trade, which might reignite United’s interest in Baleba.
One fan said: “Swapping Mainoo for Baleba would be the best piece of business United do since SAF.”
Another added: “I’ll swap Mainoo for Baleba if there’s a chance for that happening, we need a really good and mobile midfielder to partner with Bruno for that pivot to work.”
A third claimed: “Make a Mainoo straight swap bid for Baleba. Mainoo is as talented, if not more, and if he clicks at Brighton, they can sell him for £100 million anyway.”
Samuel Luckhurst of the MEN claims that Mainoo was formerly seen as “untouchable,” so it is unknown if United would approve a trade for him.
The Guardian claims that Mainoo is focused on joining a Champions League team, which means Chelsea may be a viable option. If Brighton decides to pursue a deal, this will probably work against them.
What has Ruben Amorim said about Kobbie Mainoo?
When asked why he didn’t start Mainoo against Fulham on Sunday, Amorim said the England player was vying for a spot in his squad with captain Fernandes.
According to Amorim, “he is fighting for the position now with Bruno.” “I made two midfield substitutions. We want to score a goal, which is why I like Mason Mount there.
“After I made the change, I thought the team should go back to using just one holding midfielder.
Thus, all he has to do is compete for the job while Bruno is training. exactly what it ought to be at Manchester United.
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